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Turnaround Expert: An Interview with Sarbendra Sarkar, MD & Founder, Cgynett Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

In sync with the tech-driven era, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd. is reputed for its consistent excellence in quality, varied offerings and impeccable service

Hotel Pics 2 Turnaround Expert: An Interview with Sarbendra Sarkar, MD & Founder, Cgynett Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

Under the aegis of hospitality veteran, Sarbendra Sarkar, Managing Director & Founder, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd, the brand is reputed for being adaptive to a rapidly changing world without compromising on quality, comfort and impeccable service. In conversation with Today’s Traveller, the astute hotelier shares some insights on current trends in the Hospitality Industry and the USPs of the Cygnett brand.

What are some of the most intriguing trends in the Hotel Industry today?
As hoteliers, it is imperative to cope up and adapt to emerging trends to evaluate guest experience and satisfaction. Advanced technology and a manifold increase in travel numbers have greatly affected the industry. Technological advancements like Smart Rooms, Personalised Solutions and Artificial Intelligence have provided a competitive edge and dictated guest experiences. Most guests are tech savvy now and want a tech-friendly atmosphere. Hotels must consider equipping the room with avant garde facilities, such as tablets, voice assistants, motorised curtains, automatic lighting and more. All of this is readily available in the market at cost-effective prices. Another significant trend is Sustainability and Eco-Tourism. Discerning travellers are taking various initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint, by travelling to niche destinations, in an effort to connect with nature and escape the rigours of urban life.

Hotel Pics 2xzc Turnaround Expert: An Interview with Sarbendra Sarkar, MD & Founder, Cgynett Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

What makes Cygnett Hotels different from other brands in the same category?
You can’t reinvent the wheel, but you can certainly do things differently. We are running a hotel management company like other competitors. However, we are stepping it up by a clear differentiate of our offerings. Cygnett provides a wide range of hospitality solutions, from Upscale – 5-Star hotels, to Midscale, Budget and Economy. Cygnett is responsive to the demands of a rapidly changing world without compromising on the founding tenets of hospitality – quality, comfort, and outstanding service. These three are our primary focus areas followed by Technology.

Hotel Pics 1 Turnaround Expert: An Interview with Sarbendra Sarkar, MD & Founder, Cgynett Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

Tell us about your new and upcoming projects? Also, what is so special about Cygnett CX platform and how does it aid your business?
We have always aimed high. Since its inception in 2014, we have established 15 properties with 1200 keys pan India and have another 15 in the pipeline,with another five at various stages of pre-opening. We propose to open in Jaipur, Ranthambore, Tinsukia, Itanagar, Nainital and many more, within the next six months. The team is working day and night to open 10-12 properties every year. Our vision is to achieve 5000+ keys by 2022, with over 90 units. Countries like Sri Lanka, UAE, Vietnam, Thailand, and other GCC & South Asian countries are also on our radar.    
We are rapidly building Cygnett’s next-gen Booking System, an AI driven technology engine, christened ‘CygnettCX.’ CygnettCX comprises several inter-meshed components that include an information-rich and user-friendly website, the Central Reservations System (CRS), an Online Reputation Management (ORM) and a service monitoring module, all supported by Artificial Intelligence and data analytics, to understand and deliver a personalised hospitality experience to every single customer. Every interaction with our guests results in a deeper and more meaningful relationship. Our technical architecture is detailed and we will be introducing new technology concepts consistently to keep pace with the tech-driven era.

Hotel Pics 3 Turnaround Expert: An Interview with Sarbendra Sarkar, MD & Founder, Cgynett Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd.